In 1986, the racetrack was reopened by the Bonadonna (spelling) family with daughter Theresa running the show as Suffolk Meadows - very hands-on in the early days. I can recall going in April 1986 to see some preview races held for state stewards to make sure that the racecourse was ready to reopen.
The second edition was haunted by a short horse population although some very competitive programs were fielded particularly in July 1986. Bo Aka was the "big horse" that 1986 season having won several of the sprinting stakes.
The season was cut short in mid-October 1986 due mostly to short fields and handle which had decreased to about $100,000 per program including limited OTB monies.
Jack Lee did call the races and there is an old video on You Tube of Jack discussing the races at Suffolk including a race replay - it is the only known surviving video of which I am aware from either Parr Meadows or Suffolk Meadows.
The intent was to return in 1987 and include limited thoroughbred racing. I always thought that this was a great potential if a partnership with NYRA could have been formed, but it never came to fruition. As a result of this and many other issues, the facility finally closed for business.
The grandstand was razed in the last 20 years so the only remnants remaining are some overhead views of the oval, an egg-shaped 5/8ths.
If anyone is interested in seeing some of the old programs and such, let me know.
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